Shishtata Bhandari
Bachelor of Information Technology student at Charles Darwin University (CDU).
The connections I have made with the people in Darwin make it easy to want to stay.
The beauty of the Territory and the warmth of the close-knit community will surprise you.
Moving to Darwin from Nepal 18 months ago, Shishtata Bhandari’s story is one of intrepidity, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the rich experiences life in the Northern Territory has offered her.
When you meet Shishtata you will be instantly drawn to her vibrant energy. She embraces life’s challenges whole-heartly with a quirky sense of humour and a strong focus on giving back to her community. She is currently in her second year of a Bachelor of Information Technology at Charles Darwin University (CDU) and jokes that she is “training to become the person you call when you forget your Wi-Fi password!”
Alongside her studies, she works in the deli section of Woolworths and as a Disability Support Worker, helping disabled and aged participants lead more independent lives and has recently accepted a role as a Service Improvement Analyst with a software and solutions technology business.
Shishtata’s experience in the Territory has been an exciting mix of academic challenges, personal growth, and vibrant community involvement. She describes the past year 18 months in the NT as both rewarding and full of adventure. When asked what her experience working and studying in the Territory has been like, Shishtata says “It has been a mix of all flavours - melting down because of assignment due dates and melting down because of heat! But then, I hang out with the coolest friends and in the coolest CDU auditorium. Seriously I need a jacket! Once you add in the weekly CDU and local events that I would never miss then you get the busiest schedule you can imagine.”
Shishtata has been struck by how integral volunteering is to the NT community, fully embracing it as part of her life here too. She believes that volunteering in the Territory isn’t an obligation, but a choice that allows individuals to grow and be part of something bigger than themselves. She is proudly involved in a number of clubs and community groups, including holding the role of Treasurer of the CDU Information Technology Students Association (ITSA) Club, planning and promoting tech events and Vice-President of the Internet of Things (IoT) Club where the club runs tech workshops on IoT devices.
In addition to these commitments, Shishtata also volunteers her time assisting as a Scout Leader for the Joey’s and Cubs at Alawa Scout Group and has recently become a member of the Student Council of CDU for 2025.
When asked about the challenges of moving to the Territory, Shishtata admits that adjusting to the new environment and culture was tough at first, but reflecting on her time here she says, “I am surprised how well I have vibed with the Northern Territory.” Adding that it is the connections she has made with the people in Darwin that has contributed to her decision to stay. “I love how everyone is approachable and ready to help you. Love the cultural community we have from all around the world and the food we get to enjoy. Understanding Aboriginal culture and history is equally intriguing, and so are the scenic places all around the NT.”
Shishtata believes the Northern Territory has given her invaluable opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. She credits the Territory’s close-knit community for encouraging her to push beyond her limits, while also celebrating the diverse cultures that call NT home. She encourages anyone considering a move to the NT to take the leap, saying, “If you look at NT on a map, you might be sceptical, but trust me, the beauty and the warmth of this place will surprise you.”
Her advice for anyone thinking about studying in the Territory? "Be ready for a journey that’s more than just academics. You’ll face challenges, but you’ll also build your personal strengths, get involved in extracurriculars, and immerse yourself in a community that values culture, collaboration, and personal growth."
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